Seizing the years with Neil Foster
I recently sat down (virtually!) with one of our Yeu Zone community members, Neil Foster. Based in the Chilterns, Neil is a former rugby player turned passionate runner. Neil represented Scotland and Great Britain at student and amateur levels for Rugby League and managed to play both Rugby Union and Rugby League to a semi-professional standard. I asked Neil to share about his transition from rugby to running, the milestones he’s achieved, and his future aspirations. Here’s our insightful conversation.
Getting into running
Rachael: Neil, what inspired you to get into running?
Neil: Running was never something I had a passion for. As a child, soccer was my initial love, but rugby quickly became my true calling. My natural talent for rugby led me to play at an international level for Scotland and Great Britain in rugby league. Rugby was more than just a sport; it was my identity. However, everything changed when I broke my leg at around 28 or 29 years old. That injury not only ended my rugby career but also marked a turning point in my life.
Around the same time, I was getting married and starting a family. The responsibilities and lifestyle changes led to significant weight gain. With a new focus on family life, I realized I needed to become more active. My goal was not just to lose weight but to be a more engaged and energetic father. The idea of running emerged as a practical solution—something I could do to improve my health and ensure I was around to actively participate in my children’s lives.
Rachael: When did running become a part of your routine?
Neil: Running became a routine during a particularly demanding period of my life. I was working in London, which meant early mornings to catch the train and long days at the office. With a newborn at home, the mornings were a whirlwind of activity. To make the most of my time, I decided to wake up an hour earlier and incorporate running into my daily schedule.
Initially, running felt like a burden—a necessary step to address my weight issues. I would drag myself out of bed, lace up my running shoes, and hit the streets with a mix of reluctance and determination. Those early runs were challenging. My body was out of shape, and I struggled to find my rhythm. However, as time went on, the experience began to change. Running gradually evolved from a physical task to a mental escape, offering a sense of clarity and peace before the demands of the day took over.
Transitioning from necessity to enjoyment
Rachael: Can you describe that shift from necessity to enjoyment?
Neil: The shift was quite profound. Initially, running was purely a means to an end, but over time, I experienced what many runners describe as the “runner’s high”—a state of euphoria and well-being that comes from sustained physical activity. This newfound joy transformed my perception of running.
A major factor in this transition was our move to the Chilterns, a region known for its scenic beauty and extensive nature trails. The change in environment had a remarkable impact on my running experience. I began to run through forests, along peaceful paths, and beside serene streams. The natural beauty of the Chilterns—coupled with the release of endorphins—made running an enjoyable and cherished activity. The sounds of the forest, the changing colours of the seasons, and the feeling of being immersed in nature all contributed to making running a vital part of my life.
Rachael: How do you manage your goals and stay motivated?
Neil: Setting achievable goals has been crucial in maintaining my motivation. I like to break down my running targets into smaller, manageable chunks. Planning my runs the day before ensures I stay on track and prevents procrastination. This approach helps me maintain consistency and makes it easier to stay committed.
One technique I use is to always aim to run a bit further than initially planned. If I’m out on a run, I often add an extra loop or kilometre. This incremental increase is easier to achieve while I’m already running than to try and make up for it later in the week. It’s a way to gradually build endurance without overwhelming myself.
The ultra-marathon experience
Rachael: Tell me about your recent ultra-marathon experience.
Neil: Last weekend, I completed a 48-kilometer ultra-marathon through the local hills. This event was a significant milestone for me, a test of my progress and endurance. Preparing for an ultra-marathon involves rigorous training, and I spent months running in various weather conditions—rain, wind, and the occasional sunny spell. Each type of weather presented its own challenges, but they were all part of the preparation process.
On race day, the support from friends and family was invaluable. They stationed themselves along the route, providing cheers and encouragement at key points. Their presence was a tremendous boost, especially during the more challenging stretches of the race. One of the most memorable moments was running through a particularly tough section and seeing my kids holding up handmade signs. Their support gave me an emotional lift and helped me push through the fatigue.
Completing the ultra-marathon in under six hours was a significant achievement. Unlike marathons, where the goal is to give everything you’ve got, ultra-marathons require a careful balance of pacing and endurance. The goal is to finish strong, with energy left in reserve. The sense of accomplishment at the end of the race was immense, a testament to the hard work and dedication involved in preparing for such a demanding event.
Rachael: How do you stay energised during long runs?
Neil: Maintaining energy levels during long runs involves both physical and mental strategies. I use simple carbohydrates like gels to keep my energy up, but mental motivation plays a crucial role as well. Knowing that people are cheering for me, seeing familiar faces, and focusing on the reasons why I run helps me stay motivated.
During the ultra-marathon, there were moments when I felt like I was hitting a wall. In those instances, I would remind myself of my goals—whether it was the sense of achievement, the health benefits, or the sheer joy of running. Running through diverse terrains—fields, hills, and along rivers—provides a unique sense of exhilaration. Even when my legs were aching, the beauty of the surroundings and the clarity of my thoughts kept me going.
Neil’s waterfall fascination is truly something else! Last year, he explored Croatia’s waterfalls through hiking and kayaking and even visited a special waterfall spot in Japan.
Daily impact and future goals
Rachael: How does running impact your daily life?
Neil: Running has become a fundamental part of my daily routine. Without it, I would feel less effective and more anxious. My morning runs provide a much-needed burst of energy, helping me to organize my thoughts and plan my day more efficiently. On days when I miss a run, I notice a decline in my overall productivity and a sense of sluggishness.
Running also plays a crucial role in stress management. The early morning runs, when the world is still quiet, offer a peaceful time to clear my head and prepare mentally for the day ahead. This routine helps me stay mentally sharp and physically fit, providing a sense of balance and well-being that carries through my entire day.
Rachael: What are your future running goals?
Neil: Looking ahead, my goal for 2024 is to run 2,000 kilometres. My previous record was 1,600 kilometres in a year, so this represents a significant increase. I also have some exciting aspirations, including running the Grand Canyon rim-to-rim-to-rim and exploring various national parks across the US. The idea of running through such iconic landscapes and experiencing their beauty up close is incredibly motivating.
I’m determined to keep running as long as my body allows. I know my past rugby injuries might eventually catch up with me, but until then, I’ll continue to push my limits. Running has given me a new lease on life, offering a sense of purpose and fulfilment that I hadn’t anticipated. I plan to embrace every step of this journey and make the most of the opportunities that running has provided me.
Thank you so much, Neil, for sharing your story with us!
If you would like to be featured or know someone who would be great to feature, please don’t hesitate to email yourfriends@helloyeu.com 😊
Seize the years,
Rachael Jennings | Co-Founder + CBO, Yeu
